“Hospitality is about trying to support multiple functions in one space,” said Miguel McKelvey, co-founder of WeWork. And nowhere is this more evident than in hotel groups. For a hotelier looking to expand knowledge, a traveler wondering about the differences between hotel brands, or an investor seeking to understand the industry's dynamics, grasping hotel model structures is important.
The concept of owning a hotel evolved far beyond the traditional image of a single proprietor managing their property – today, it's a complex web of ownership models, management agreements, and brand standards. In this read, we'll explore how these structures work, the major players, and what this means for everyone involved in the hospitality ecosystem.
Figuring out the hotel business model
The story of chains of hotel networks started with one ambitious man back in 1901. Ellsworth Milton Statler opened his first hotel in Buffalo, New York, kickstarting what would become one of America's first old hotel chains. Today, that pioneering spirit lives on — his dozen properties eventually became part of Hilton Hotels, now one of the biggest power hotel groups.
Speaking of today's hotel giants… Let's talk numbers. Marriott International is a leader among brand chain businesses, with an impressive market cap or net worth of $75.76 billion.
The modern hotel hierarchy has come a long way from Statler's day. But despite these big players, being a hotel owner still comes in different forms.
What makes an independent hotel? An independent hotel definition would describe properties that choose to create their own unique identity instead of following chain standards. And they're not as rare as you might think — 40% of US hotels are independent, according to STR. That's pretty impressive when hotel groups like Wyndham Hotels have 9,000 properties.
Running these massive hotel empires isn't getting any easier — about 64% of global hotel chains are now passing their rising costs on to guests, showing how even the biggest names must adapt to stay on top. Now, let’s discover the difference between hotel groups, hotel chains, and hotel brands.
Every hotel model explained
What exactly is a hotel group? These groups don't just own one type of hotel — they're managing dozens of different hotel brands under one name. These groups own different types of hotels catering to various needs, from luxury getaways to budget-friendly stays. This is what we call a hotel business model at its largest scale.
Now, what exactly is a chain hotel? Hotels that share the same name and follow the same rules. This consistency is vital for best hotel chains for business travel, where reliability matters. Let's talk about different types of chains:
Full-service hotel properties (like Marriott's flagship hotels) offer everything from restaurants to spas. They're perfect for those who want it all under one roof.
A select service hotel (such as Courtyard by Marriott) is more like your practical cousin — they focus on the essentials done well, without the extra frills.
Boutique chains bring personality to the table — they're the creative family members who do things differently at each location while maintaining high standards.
What about hotel brands? They're the unique personalities each chain develops — their special way of doing things makes them stand out in the hotel hierarchy. For instance, when comparing Hyatt vs Marriott, each brings its own flavor to hospitality.The beauty of today's hotel landscape is choice. However, to make an informed decision, it’s also important to understand the types of hotel ownership.Four main types of hotel ownershipEach model has its sweet spot in the market, but also its nuances.
A solo-owned establishment is your privately owned hotel. You build your dream from scratch but shoulder all the risks. While you enjoy complete freedom in the hospitality venture, you need to work extra hard to build your reputation from the ground up.
Conversely, we have the franchise model — joining an established hospitality brand. As a franchise owner, you're adopting everything from big names in the business. You'll get instant recognition and proven systems, but you must play by their rules.
The managed model is perfect for passive hotel investors who want to own property without running the day-to-day operations. They hire hotel operators to handle everything from hiring staff to managing guest experiences.
In leased properties, hotel landlords rent out their buildings to operators for a period, which is all about steady income with minimal involvement.
Let’s learn what the structure, management, and day-to-day operations of the best hotel chains look like.
Chains hotel management: How it works
Chain hotels are the McDonald's of the hospitality world – but with more luxury and strict standards. Hotel chains operate through several business models:
Traditional chain model. Properties owned and operated directly by the hotel group, ensuring complete control over standards and operations.
Franchise model. One of the most popular hotel business models, where independent hotel owners operate properties under major hotel brands like Hilton or IHG. This arrangement dominates among hotel chains in the US and hotel chains in Europe.
Soft brand model. It’s a newer approach where unique properties maintain their personality while accessing chain resources. This model bridges the gap between chain hotels and independent hotels.
Management contract. Companies like Marriott or Hyatt manage properties owned by others, providing their expertise and standards.
Understanding these business models is just the beginning, as chain hotel operations require a well-structured management system. What is a chain hotel management structure?Chain hotel management is the science of operating multiple properties under a single brand umbrella. Levels of hotel chains management include:
Corporate-level leaders handle brand standards, global partnerships, loyalty programs, worldwide marketing, and revenue management. They make all top-level decisions affecting the entire chain.
Regional management serves as local brand ambassadors. They oversee properties in their geographic area, adapt global strategies locally, manage regional partnerships, and solve area-specific issues.
The general manager runs individual properties. They lead overall operations, manage profits and losses, plan strategy, and maintain relationships with franchise owners.
Department heads manage specific areas: Front Office handles check-ins and guest services, Housekeeping maintains cleanliness standards, Food & Beverage runs restaurants and room service, Sales and Marketing drives revenue, Human Resources manages staffing, and Engineering maintains the building.
Line staff includes front desk agents who welcome guests, housekeepers who maintain rooms, food service workers who prepare and serve meals, and maintenance staff who handle repairs and upkeep.
Managing properties in different regions is very challenging. But with modern technology and a skilled travel software development company, it’s way easier.
How software streamlines chain hotel management
At the heart of operations sits a Property Management System (PMS), which handles everything from check-ins to billing. Modern solutions connect with channel managers that distribute rooms across booking platforms, ensuring your property is visible to customers. They track how their property performs against other hotel chains in Europe or the US and adjust pricing based on demand.
Revenue management becomes smarter with software that automatically adjusts rates based on market conditions. For franchise hotels, these systems ensure they meet brand standards while maintaining efficient operations. They track performance, manage loyalty programs, and ensure they deliver consistent guest experiences.
COAX Software has solid hotel management software development expertise. We understand that each property type needs tailored solutions. Our development team specializes in creating custom software that connects all aspects of hotel operations, from reservation systems to guest service applications. Focusing on scalable, secure solutions, we help properties of all sizes compete effectively in today's digital-first hospitality landscape.
Take a look at the comprehensive booking solution we developed for Crystal Lake Resort. Starting with essential booking and payment features, the system evolved into a powerful platform that automates operations while preserving the personal touch guests expect. With seamless management and secure data handling, the solution enhances efficiency and ensures long-term success.
Learning from top-of-the-world hotel groups
When analyzing the largest hotel chains in the world, several key players dominate the hospitality landscape, each bringing unique strengths to the market. Let's explore how these hotel management groups have shaped the industry through their distinctive approaches to hospitality and accessibility.
Marriott International
History and market share. What began as a modest root beer stand in 1927 evolved into one of the best hotel companies, setting industry standards across multiple segments. Marriott International commands an impressive market presence with a $76 billion market capitalization and annual revenue reaching $6.44 billion in Q2 2024, marking a 6% year-over-year growth.
Brands. At the heart of Marriott's success lies a diverse brand portfolio, with over 30 brands that cater to every market segment. From the ultra-luxury offerings of The Ritz-Carlton to the reliable comfort of Fairfield Inn, Marriott has positioned itself among the best hotel brands worldwide.
Properties. The company's presence is impressive, with nearly 9,000 properties housing 1.6 million rooms across 141 countries. North America remains Marriott's stronghold with over 6,000 properties, while its European presence continues to grow with 799 properties.
Accessibility. When comparing Marriott vs Hilton or evaluating what is the best hotel chain, Marriott's commitment to accessibility sets it apart. The company's "Room for All" program was developed through direct collaboration with the disability community:
Comprehensive room redesign with disability community input.
Enhanced accessibility features throughout public spaces.
Specialized staff training for assisted check-in.
Advanced room technologies for various accessibility needs.
Dedicated concierge services for guests with special requirements.
Modified room layouts for improved mobility access.
Integrated communication systems for hearing-impaired guests.
Marriott's approach to inclusivity extends beyond physical accessibility. Their LoveTravels initiative represents a broader commitment to equality. During Pride 2022, for example, the company's "LoveTravels with Love Letters" campaign resulted in $100,000 in donations.
Hilton Worldwide Holdings
History and market share. Hilton Worldwide Holdings has built an impressive legacy since its beginnings in 1919. Today, with a market capitalization of $59.31 billion and quarterly revenue of $2.951 billion in Q2 2024, Hilton stands as a testament to successful hospitality management, with franchise and licensing fees contributing a substantial $689 million to their revenue stream.
Brands. The company's brand portfolio reflects its understanding of diverse market needs, encompassing 24 brands that span from luxury to midscale. This diversity has helped Hilton establish itself among the best hotel chains globally, with iconic names like Waldorf Astoria and DoubleTree. For those curious about which hotel chain is best, Hilton's rapid growth in loyalty program membership – now at 173 million members – speaks volumes about guest satisfaction.
Properties. Hilton's global footprint is impressive, managing 8,300 properties with over 1.2 million rooms across 126 countries. The United States remains their primary market with 5,600 properties, while their Asian presence, particularly in China with 520 hotels, demonstrates their expansion into emerging markets. Their operating model relies on franchising, with 6,600 franchised properties, complemented by 800 managed locations and 51 leased properties.
Accessibility. In the ongoing debate of Hilton vs IHG or Hyatt vs Hilton, Hilton has an innovative approach to accessibility and guest services. "We believe that every guest deserves a reliable and friendly travel experience," says Mike Gathright, Senior Vice President of Customer Excellence and Innovation. Their initiatives include:
Groundbreaking partnership with Be My Eyes for visually impaired guests.
Specially trained customer service teams for accessibility support.
Enhanced room designs for various mobility needs.
Advanced communication systems for hearing-impaired guests.
Integrated technology solutions for independent navigation.
Operating in-room coffee machine with the Be My Eyes app
What's noteworthy is Hilton's approach to accessibility information. Through their partnership with AccessAble, they've become the first major hotel company to offer comprehensive accessibility guides for their properties.
Accor
History and market share. Starting in France back in 1967, Accor has grown into one of the biggest names in European hotel chains. The numbers speak for themselves — with revenue hitting $2.677 billion in early 2024, showing an impressive 11% jump from last year.
Brands. What makes Accor special is their incredible variety — they've got 55 brands. From fancy places like Fairmont and Sofitel to budget-friendly spots like Ibis, they've got something for everyone. This smart approach has helped them become one of the top hotel chains in Europe.
Properties. You can find Accor hotels pretty much everywhere — they run 5,700 hotels with 840,000 rooms across more than 110 countries. Accor's approach to loyalty shines through their "ALL: Accor Live Limitless" program with exhibition and cruise offers.
Accessibility. Accor really stands out when it comes to making everyone feel welcome. For the 2024 Olympics and Paralympics in Paris, they've gone all out:
380 hotels working to get special "Tourisme & Handicap" certification.
Smart Rooms with adjustable furniture and fixtures.
Special features for guests with hearing, vision, mobility, and cognitive needs.
Easy-to-use room controls and technology.
Extra staff training for helping guests with disabilities.
Emergency response systems in all accessible rooms.
Clear signs and navigation throughout hotels.
As Sébastien Bazin, Chairman & CEO of Accor, emphasizes: "Over the past few months, the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games have been a catalyst to improve the way in which we cater for travelers with disabilities... This achievement will be one of the legacies for Accor."
Wyndham Hotels & Resorts
History and market share. Talk about starting small — Wyndham began in Dallas, Texas, and has grown into one of America's favorite budget hotel chains in the world. Their recent numbers tell a success story, with revenue reaching $366 million in the second quarter of 2024.
Brands. This is a chain hotel that successfully balances global reach with local sensitivity. With 25 different brands spread across six categories, Wyndham knows how to cater to different travelers and their wallets, from the fancy Wyndham Grand to the reliable Super 8.
Properties. Wyndham's got plenty of it — over 9,000 properties with 885,000 rooms spread across 95 countries. It's interesting to note that they mostly work through franchising, which has helped them grow quickly while keeping their quality consistent. Wyndham's approach to loyalty through their Wyndham Rewards program, with 101 million members.
Accessibility. Wyndham takes special care to make sure everyone can enjoy their stays:
Special rooms near elevators for easy access.
Visual and sound alarms for safety.
Wheelchair-friendly spaces throughout their properties.
Extra features like knock lights and special phones.
Trained staff ready to help guests with disabilities.
Support animal-friendly policies.
Easy-to-use room controls and amenities.
Beyond just following rules, they're actively working to make their hotels more welcoming for everyone, especially in places like their Disney Springs® Resort Area.
Hyatt
History and market share. From Jay Pritzker's first hotel in 1957, Hyatt has grown into something special. While they might not be the biggest, they're one of the most impressive hotel chains, bringing in $307 million in adjusted earnings for Q2 2024.
Brands. Though they've got fewer brands than some others — 29 in total — each one stands out. From the super fancy Park Hyatt to the practical Hyatt Place, they've earned their spot among the best hotel brands by focusing on quality over quantity.
Properties. Running more than 1,350 hotels with over 300,000 rooms in 70+ countries might seem modest compared to some giants, but Hyatt makes every property count. Most of their hotels are either franchised or managed by Hyatt, letting them keep their high standards.
Accessibility. Where Hyatt shines is in making their hotels work for everyone:
Rooms with motion sensor night lights.
Special alerts for door, phone, and emergency alarms.
Pool lifts and automatic doors.
Beds at the right height for easy transfer.
USB ports placed where they're easy to reach.
Well-designed bathrooms with smart grab bar placement.
Staff specially trained in helping all guests.
Their World of Hyatt loyalty program even lets members save their accessibility preferences, showing they're thinking ahead about making travel easier for everyone.
H World Group
History and market share. Since 2005, H World has turned heads in the hospitality world, growing from a local Chinese company into a global player. Their success shows in the numbers — revenue hit $846 million in Q2 2024, up 11.2% from last year. For anyone interested in B2B travel management, their rapid growth story is worth studying.
Brands. Though they only have 20 brands, each one serves its purpose perfectly. Their brands range from budget-friendly to luxury getaways. The group's "Better H World, Better Life" philosophy isn't just a catchy slogan — it's woven into everything they do.
Properties. With 10,286 hotels and over 1 million rooms across 18 countries, H World knows how to think big. What's really clever is their business approach — 93.4% of their rooms run through franchises, while they only directly own or lease 6.6%.
Accessibility. H World takes a thoughtful approach to making their hotels inclusive:
Modern, accessible room designs.
Emergency response systems in every accessible room.
Special training for staff.
Easy-access public areas.
Clear navigation signs throughout hotels.
Wheelchair-friendly facilities.
Their H Rewards loyalty program adds extra perks, offering members special deals, restaurant vouchers, and free breakfast across all their brands.
InterContinental Hotels Group
History and market share. IHG started as Bass Brewery in 1777 and has grown into one of the top British hotel chains. Today, they're bringing in big revenue — $2.322 billion in early 2024, up 4% from 2023. Their biggest success is in the Americas, but they're strong everywhere they go.
Brands. With 19 brands under their roof, IHG covers all the bases. Their full-service hotel example InterContinental Hotels & Resorts shows what luxury looks like, while Holiday Inn keeps things comfortable and affordable.
Properties. Running 6,430 hotels with 954,000 rooms across 117 countries is no small feat. Over 70% of these run as franchises, showing how well their business model works. The IHG One Rewards program has grown impressively, with over 130 million members who now make up more than 60% of their room stays.
Accessibility. IHG takes accessibility seriously across all locations. Their website states the motto: “We extend our values to all and we invite our colleagues and guests to be yourself”. As to the guest accessibility, their approach includes:
Blue Badge parking in UK properties.
Ceiling track hoists in select locations.
Emergency support systems.
Adapted bathrooms with specialized equipment.
Trained staff for accessibility assistance.
Clear navigation throughout properties.
Connecting room options for caregivers.
Notably, their commitment extends to Ukraine — in times of war, caring for the needs of disabled people is especially important, and their property in Kyiv offers 26m² accessible rooms with the option to connect adjacent rooms, ensuring companions or caregivers can stay close by while maintaining independence for guests with disabilities.
Best Western
History and market share. From a simple hotel referral system in 1946, Best Western has grown into one of the most reliable UK hotel chains, proving that steady growth and consistent service win the race — now, Best Western International's annual revenue is $6.6B per year.
Brands. Their 19 brands hit different parts of the market — from the classic Best Western to modern spots like Vib and GLō. For the best hotel chain for business travelers, their mix of practical comfort and reliable service makes them a popular choice.
Properties. With about 4,300 hotels and 311,000 rooms in over 100 countries, Best Western has built a solid global network. The Best Western Rewards program adds extra value with points that never expire and special rates across all properties.
Accessibility. "Our goal is to make every guest feel at home," says Best Western’s properties motto. Their commitment shows in features like:
Detailed property descriptions for accessibility features.
We pay extra attention to the chains’ presence in our country in this trying time, and their Lviv location offers specially designed 24-square-meter rooms with automatic door-opening systems and strategic placement near elevators and main entrances.
Choice Hotels International
History and market share. Starting in 1939 as a group of seven motel owners working together, Choice Hotels has become a major player in hospitality. Their Q2 2024 revenue hit $435.2 million, showing a solid 2% growth from 2023.
Brands. With 22 brands ranging from luxury Radisson to comfortable Quality Inn, they've got something for everyone. Their approach to brand variety makes them a great study in successful hotel branding examples.
Properties. Managing 7,000 hotels with nearly 570,000 rooms across 40 countries shows their impressive reach. Their mix of locations helps them serve both business and leisure travelers effectively. The Choice Privileges loyalty program adds value with rewards like parking perks, competitive rates, and gift cards that can be used across their various brands.
Accessibility. Their accessibility features include:
Special alarms for hearing and visually impaired guests.
Easy navigation throughout properties.
Trained staff for accessibility support.
Clear booking process for accessible rooms.
Support animal-friendly policies.
Enhanced communication systems.
Choice Hotels also has developed accessibility policies and multi-year plans to ensure they're not just meeting legal requirements but truly creating welcoming spaces for all guests.
Sustainability: How hotel groups keep up
When it comes to making the hospitality industry more environmentally friendly, several major hotel groups are leading the charge. Let's look at some examples of hotel chains that adopted sustainable practices.
Mariott
"Sustainability has been a priority for our customers for some time," explains Denise Naguib, Global Vice President of Sustainability and Supplier Diversity at Marriott International. Guided by its "Serve 360" platform and the UN Sustainable Development Goals, the company focuses on four key pillars: nurturing communities, operating responsibly, empowering individuals, and promoting inclusivity.
Marriott is committed to sustainability with goals to reduce carbon intensity by 30%, water intensity by 15%, food waste by 50%, and landfill waste by 45% while achieving 30% renewable electricity use by 2025. The company also plans for all hotels to attain recognized sustainability certifications, with many pursuing LEED certification for greener operations.
Hilton
In discussions of "is Hilton or Marriott better," Hilton's commitment to sustainability is impressive. They were the first major hotel company to establish Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi) goals. Hilton’s "Travel with Purpose" program also drives sustainability through energy efficiency, water conservation, and waste reduction.
By 2030, it aims to cut emissions by 75% in managed hotels and 56% in franchised properties, using strategies like energy-efficient retrofits, renewable energy adoption, and carbon offsets. Hilton also works with partners to reduce water usage and improve water quality while minimizing waste through food waste reduction, recycling, and eliminating single-use plastics.
Accor
Accor has made bold commitments to sustainability. Their 2050 net zero carbon emissions goal includes ambitious targets: a 46% reduction in Scope 1&2 emissions and a 28% reduction in Scope 3 emissions by 2030. What sets them apart is their partnership with the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) and their requirement for all 5,400 hotels to obtain external sustainable certification through partners like Green Key and Green Globe.
Wyndham
What truly distinguishes Wyndham is their commitment to sustainability. Their Wyndham Green Program, launched as a comprehensive five-level certification system, demonstrates how top hotel franchises can balance environmental responsibility with inclusive hospitality. This program ranges from basic conservation measures to expert-level sustainability practices, showing how modern hotel management groups can lead in multiple areas of social responsibility.
Hyatt
Hyatt’s sustainability efforts, driven by its "World of Care" program, focus on advancing environmental action, supporting communities, and promoting responsible business practices. By 2030, Hyatt aims to cut greenhouse gas emissions through science-based targets, improve water conservation, reduce food waste by 50%, and phase out single-use plastics.
The company emphasizes responsible sourcing, sustainable guest experiences, and community engagement, such as protecting coral reefs, restoring ecosystems, and promoting biodiversity. With tools like Hyatt EcoTrack and partnerships with industry leaders, Hyatt is committed to creating thriving destinations and fostering a more sustainable future.
H groups
H Group’s CSR Roadmap emphasizes sustainability through five key pillars: guest satisfaction, employee happiness, environmental improvement, win-win partnerships, and governance excellence.
The strategy focuses on enhancing guest experiences with safety and eco-friendly options, fostering employee growth through robust training and inclusive policies, promoting green practices like modular construction and low-carbon accommodations, and supporting responsible procurement and community welfare.
IHG
IHG's commitment to sustainability is demonstrated through the Green Engage system, which offers hotels over 200 environmental solutions across four certification levels. Their newer initiatives include Low Carbon Hotels backed by renewable energy and properties with EV charging stations, positioning them at the forefront of sustainable hospitality.
IHG's Low Carbon Hotels program highlights a vision for sustainable hospitality, featuring innovative solutions such as well-insulated buildings with heat recovery, all-electric kitchens using induction hobs, high-efficiency water systems, advanced heating and cooling technologies, solar or heat pump pool heating, and solar PV panels where applicable.
Best Western
In April 2023, BWH launched "Because We Care," a global sustainability initiative built on three pillars: Earth, People, and Community (EPC). This strategic program demonstrates BWH's commitment to addressing critical global challenges while meeting evolving guest expectations.
The group's dedication to environmental sustainability is evident through various initiatives. The Premier Hotel Victoria in Freiburg, Germany, has 200 square meters of solar panels, four wind turbines, and wood pellet heating systems. In January 2024, BWH Hotels formed a partnership with Green Key International to promote sustainability certification across their portfolio.
Choice Hotels
Choice Hotels demonstrates a strong commitment to social responsibility and sustainability by supporting workplace diversity, offering scholarships, and mentoring programs for Black professionals. Their Room to Give program encourages community volunteering with financial matching, while Room to Be Green® promotes eco-friendly practices across hotels and offices.
Their commitment to accessibility and sustainability earned them recognition as one of America's Most Responsible Companies in 2025 by Newsweek and Statista.
Best hotel brands for solo travelers
Today, solo group travel companies are on the rise for a reason — 24% of British tourists are planning trips alone in 2025. So, reviewing our players in this context is very important.
What is a chain hotel’s sign of a great solo place to stay?
When evaluating hotels for solo travelers, key considerations include secure environments and reliable services: strong Wi-Fi connection and social spaces, conference rooms, and business facilities for work-related needs. Efficient transfers and accessibility to local transport are essential for seamless travel.
Additionally, budget-friendly options with a transparent hotel pricing model play a big role in decision-making. We will assess how each hotel group addresses these criteria to meet the unique needs of solo travelers.
Evaluating the best hotel companies for traveling alone
With the criteria defined, let’s consider the top hotel groups that give solo travelers a safe, good, adjustable experience.
Marriott: best for luxurious escapes.
Picture yourself at a Marriott property, where solo travel meets comfort and convenience. The Renaissance Cancun Resort & Marina is a hidden gem for independent explorers taking a refreshing dip in their pools. The best part? You're next to a vibrant mall with plenty of dining options, so you'll never feel isolated.The Westin Lagunamar in Cancun's Hotel Zone is another fantastic choice, especially if you love to wander. Located right across from La Isla shopping center, you can easily stroll to nearby restaurants and shops. The downside is the higher price segment: while it’s great for luxury traveling, backpacking in Mariott isn’t very possible.
Hilton: great for gastronomy and spa tours.
Hilton hotels get what sophisticated solo travelers need. Take the Biltmore Mayfair in London — it's like having a luxury apartment in one of the city's most charming neighborhoods. They offer amazing perks like private guided walking tours and VIP shopping experiences.The Hotel 1000 in Seattle shows another side of Hilton's solo-friendly approach. Just steps from Pike Place Market, it's ideal for foodie adventures. Plus, their spa services are exactly what you need after a day of exploring. The price is also on the higher side here, though.
Accor: diverse and more affordable.
Accor brings something special to the solo travel scene. Mama Shelter Lisbon is like staying at your friend's place, blending French style with Portuguese energy. The vibe is social but not overwhelming, making it perfect for solo travelers who want to mingle on their terms.For budget-conscious explorers, their Ibis Styles hotels are scattered throughout prime locations like Lisbon's Centro Liberdade. You get that perfect mix of affordability and prime location — because who wants to spend precious travel time commuting?
Wyndham: comfort and convenience.
Wyndham's got your back when you're flying solo! Their Wyndham Garden properties, like the one in Mazatlan, are perfect for independent travelers who want a bit of everything — outdoor pools, fitness centers, and locations that put you right where the action is. And here's a pro tip: they've got some great road trip-friendly properties across their network, perfect if you're planning a solo adventure on wheels.
Hyatt: experience-rich stays.
If you're a solo traveler who lives for unique experiences, Hyatt's going to be your jam. At Thompson Playa del Carmen, you can join complimentary tequila tastings. Love wellness? Check out Andaz Scottsdale's three-day wellness retreats — perfect for some me-time. Just keep in mind that some properties have specific policies about visitors, so it's worth checking those details if you're planning to meet up with local friends.
H World Group: the smart choice for budget travelers.
Here's a gem for the budget-conscious solo traveler: H World Group hotels are all about smart, efficient stays. Their H Rewards program is pretty sweet — with lightning-fast 30-second check-ins and an app that helps with everything from room selection to getting a taxi. Perfect for business travelers or anyone who wants a fuss-free, wallet-friendly stay.
IHG: good, but with nuances.
While they make promises about service through their IHG Clean Promise, recent traveler experiences paint a nuanced picture worth considering. A stay at InterContinental Barcelona in 2023 highlighted concerns when a staff member entered a guest's room without knocking. This, combined with some cleanliness issues reported at various properties and recent security incidents and fraud, reminds us that even prestigious brands have flaws.That said, IHG remains a solid choice for solo travelers. The key is to be proactive about your security — request rooms away from ground level, use all available door locks, and don't hesitate to speak up.
Choice Hotels: a budget-friendly reality check.
Choice Hotels is often a wallet-friendly option and an Instagram review from a solo traveler shared that nine out of ten properties she's visited have been clean, comfortable, and safe.However, recent guest experiences reveal some challenges worth noting. A traveling nurse practitioner shared their frustration with the rewards program after unsuccessfully trying to claim promised gas points for months of loyal stays. Other travelers have reported maintenance issues, from malfunctioning door locks at Comfort Inns to late-night fire alarm problems.When choosing between these chains, remember to take time to research recent reviews, understand the location, and have a backup plan just in case.
FAQ
What is a select service hotel?
Select service hotels offer essential amenities and limited food/beverage options, focusing on core services like comfortable rooms and basic amenities without full-service extras like room service or extensive meeting spaces.
What is a full service hotel definition?
A full-service hotel offers complete amenities including restaurants, meeting spaces, concierge, room service, fitness facilities, and extensive guest services.
What is a limited service hotel definition?
Limited service hotels provide basic accommodations with minimal amenities, typically offering clean rooms and essential services without extras like on-site restaurants or extensive facilities.
What is a guest model Marriott has?
Marriott's guest model focuses on personalized service delivery through loyalty programs, standardized amenities, and tailored experiences across different brand tiers.
How does IHG vs Hilton compare?
While both are major global players, IHG focuses more on franchise operations with brands like Holiday Inn, while Hilton emphasizes luxury segments.
